The West Jaintia Hills district administration has banned the sale and distribution of petrol and diesel in loose quantities across the district with immediate effect, citing public safety concerns and the risk of further escalation of an ongoing agitation. The District Magistrate issued the order under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and said it will remain in force until further notice.
The order specifically prohibits unauthorised sale of petrol and diesel in jerry cans, bottles and other containers, warning that such sales and hoarding pose serious risks including fire hazards and threats to life, property and public order. Officials said the restriction is necessary to protect public safety and public property and to prevent any untoward incident amid the current situation.
The administration linked the restriction to existing legal provisions governing petroleum products under the Petroleum Act, 1934, and said anyone violating the directive will face legal action under Section 223 of the BNS and other applicable laws. Enforcement measures and penalties, the order noted, will follow relevant regulations.
Essential supplies of diesel for mobile towers and for road-construction companies are exempted and will continue under standing orders issued by the District Magistrate. Such supplies must comply with the Petroleum Act, 1934, and other applicable rules. The directive follows a rally organised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) and comes amid concerns that the agitation could intensify.
